Warners Solicitors is a go-to firm for clients in the agricultural and rural sectors seeking advice on a range of matters, including contentious and non-contentious property issues. The team is spearheaded by Steve Colville in Tonbridge. Michael McNally is noted for his expertise in the equestrian industry, and Tim Ryan is recommended for criminal matters relating to farming regulation violations and wildlife offences. Gail Hall is a further standout lawyer, who advises farming families on succession planning, trusts, and inheritance tax.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The firm is very efficient. There is good expertise within the agricultural law sector. They are approachable with partners able to cover many facets of agricultural law.’

  • ‘Gail Hall has been very helpful, courteous, and willing to listen to full details of the work requested. She was very sympathetic to the issues arising and excellent in dealing with elderly clients. The work was completed in a timely manner.’

  • 'They are professional, attentive, and have good client relationships.' 

  • ‘The services provided are efficient and exact. They give good clear advice.’

  • ‘Michael McNally in particular is very efficient and concise. His no-nonsense approach gets the job done. We appreciate his expertise and knowledge of agricultural matters.’

  • ‘They have a strong empathy for the clients mixed with excellent legal knowledge.’

  • ‘They are a friendly approachable firm with an extremely good knowledge of the rural community and challenges that clients may face.’

  • ‘They provide a friendly, knowledgeable, and professional service. Warner's take the time to understand the community they work in. Stand out partners include Gail Hall, Michael McNally, and Steve Colville.’

Key clients

  • National Farmers Union
  • Markel Legal Expenses Insurance
  • J M Osborne Rural and Sporting Limited
  • British Hound Sports Association

Work highlights

  • Advised J M Osborne Rural and Sporting Limited in relation to the employment of gamekeepers, grouse moors, shooting estates, and landed estates.
  • Advising Markel Legal Expenses regarding a large number of major farms and landed estates.
  • Advising farms in the Southeast on numerous disputes over trespass, adverse possession, easements, and travellers.

Lawyers

Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Steve Colville

Other key lawyers

Michael McNally, Tim Ryan, Gail Hall